Brain cortex activity of patients with disorders of consciousness under familiar and unfamiliar voice of subject's own name: an fNIRS-based study - Report - MDSpire
Advertisement
Brain cortex activity of patients with disorders of consciousness under familiar and unfamiliar voice of subject's own name: an fNIRS-based study
Cortical Responses in Patients with Disorders of Consciousness to Voices
Overview
This study investigates cortical activation in patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) in response to familiar versus unfamiliar voices calling their name using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Findings indicate distinct activation patterns, suggesting the potential for tailored auditory stimulation strategies in clinical settings.
Background
Disorders of consciousness (DOC) encompass conditions such as coma and the vegetative state, significantly impacting patient outcomes and quality of life. Auditory sensory stimulation has emerged as a complementary therapeutic approach, yet there is variability in its application. Understanding how familiar and unfamiliar voices affect cortical responses can enhance rehabilitation strategies for patients with DOC.
Data Highlights
Condition
Cortical Activation
Correlation with CRS-R Scores
Familiar Voice (FV SON)
No deactivation in DLPFC-L, greater peak values
Positive correlation with CRS-R VFS score
Unfamiliar Voice (UFV SON)
Deactivation in DLPFC-L, greater peak values in TC-L
Positive correlation with CRS-R total score and others
Key Findings
Participants with DOC showed deactivation in the Left Dorsolateral Pre-frontal Cortex (DLPFC-L) under UFV SON stimulation.
Under FV SON stimulation, participants did not exhibit deactivation in the DLPFC-L.
The peak value in the DLPFC-L was greater during FV SON compared to UFV SON.
Positive correlations were found between peak values under FV SON and CRS-R VFS scores.
Initial slope of DLPFC-L under UFV SON was positively correlated with CRS-R AFC scores.
Clinical Implications
The distinct cortical activation patterns observed suggest that familiar voices may elicit more significant responses in patients with DOC. This insight can guide the development of personalized auditory stimulation strategies to enhance rehabilitation efforts.
Conclusion
The study highlights the importance of voice familiarity in eliciting cortical responses in DOC patients, warranting further investigation to validate these findings in larger cohorts.
